No. 10 Notre Dame defeated N.C. State 45–24. The Wolfpack (1-0) aimed to build on its victory over UConn. It did in certain areas, most notably making some improvements in defense in its 2023 home opener at Carter-Finley Stadium on Saturday.
However, it didn’t advance far enough, and the Irish (3-0) proved that their 98-6 win differential over Navy and Tennessee State wasn’t an exception. Even though Notre Dame occasionally had trouble against the Pack defense on Saturday, it was obvious who was the superior squad.
The N.C. State defense improved this week, but it still displayed recurring issues.
It was more aggressive and energetic on the field, especially on early rushing attempts, which it occasionally lacked versus UConn in Week 1. On Notre Dame’s first two drives, the Pack was able to force punts because to their vigor.
The third drive revealed some of the lingering coverage irregularities. Despite giving up 50 yards on it, N.C. State was only able to hold the Irish to a 54-yard field goal thanks to the Pack’s defensive coverage. Late in the third quarter, the defense caused and recovered a turnover, which allowed the offense to advance significantly into Notre Dame territory. Additionally, it added four sacks.
